Bedside Lung Ultrasound in Emergency Protocol as a Diagnostic Tool in Patients of Acute Respiratory Distress Presenting to Emergency Department.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to determine the accuracy of the bedside lung ultrasound in emergency (BLUE) protocol in giving a correct diagnosis in patients presenting with acute respiratory distress in emergency department.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with acute respiratory distress were evaluated. Ultrasound findings such as artifacts (A line, B line), lung sliding, alveolar consolidation or pleural effusion, and venous analysis were recorded. Ultrasonography findings were correlated with final diagnosis made by the treating unit. Sensitivity and specificity were calculated.

RESULTS

A total 50 patients were evaluated. The A profile (predominant A line with lung sliding) indicated chronic obstructive pulmonary disease/asthma ( = 14) with 85.17% sensitivity and 88.88% specificity. B profile (predominant B + lines with lung sliding) indicated pulmonary edema ( = 13) with 92.30% sensitivity and 100% specificity. The A/B profile (A line on one side and B + line on other side) and the C profile (anterior consolidation) and the A profile plus posterolateral alveolar and/or pleural syndrome indicated pneumonia ( = 17) with 94.11 sensitivity and 93.93% specificity. The A profile plus venous thrombosis indicated pulmonary embolism ( = 1) with 100% sensitivity and specificity. A' profile (predominant A line without lung sliding) with lung point indicated pneumothorax ( = 5) with 80% sensitivity and 100% specificity.

CONCLUSION

BLUE protocol was successful in average 90.316% cases. BLUE performed in emergency department is equivalent to computed tomography scan. BLUE protocol aids in making diagnosis and saves time and cost; avoids the side effects related to radiation.